Teachers’ Strategies in Teaching Speaking at High Schools: Obstacles and Challenges

Abstract

This research analyzed the teachers’ strategy in teaching speaking skills and the teachers’ difficulties in teaching speaking skills at senior high schools in Palopo. This research used a narrative qualitative method. The participants consisted of three teachers. The researchers used two instruments to collect data: observations and interviews. The researchers analyzed the research results using Miles and Huberman data analysis model. The results show that Teacher 1 uses the method of grouping, discussion, games, and describing pictures. Teacher 2 uses video, audio, roleplay, minidictionary, and word chain methods. Teacher 3 uses the multimedia method of describing home, reporting, and storytelling. In addition, specific challenges faced include students with limited vocabulary, lack of student engagement, students experiencing physical and mental fatigue towards the end of the day, and constraints regarding resources and practice facilities. Since the examined strategies and procedures are relevant to the Indonesian national curriculum, they were helpful for communication in Indonesian high school classrooms.